MMR: miracle cure or dangerous cocktail?

'People who don't have their children immunised are fools - chicken pox and measles can be deadly to children. With all this media hype there are no real statistics to show that only children who have the vaccine get autism.

That got a reaction from several people:

'You call people 'fools' who won't have their children immunised against MMR, because you think that there isn't any evidence that it can cause autism or bowel disease. Why is it then, that in the US, autism cases have increased sevenfold over the last 10 years and in 27 States it has increased by 300 per cent? (Daily Mail Jan 23rd 2001). Until more tests are carried out, I won't have my daughter immunised. I also realise that mumps and measles can lead to fatalities, but considering I have had both illnesses myself, and recovered, I am willing to take my chances with my daughter. Remember Thalidomide? That was also considered a 'safe' for all expectant mothers to stop morning sickness. Explain that to the children who were consequently born without arms or legs.'

......including this moving post

'I wish I had trusted my instincts. When my seven-year-old son was due for his MMR jab, I asked for advice from the doctor and the health visitor, as I had no idea how safe it was. Having been assured that it was perfectly safe, I allowed my son to be vaccinated. Soon afterwards, he began banging his head against the end of his cot, and rocking in his chair. He became very withdrawn, and would only relate to one person - me. He also developed his own little 'rituals' and got very upset if I changed anything at all in his daily routine. I didn't realise it at the time, but now know that these are all symptoms of autism. Needless to say I did not allow him to have the booster vaccination. Luckily his symptoms were comparatively mild, and with a lot of patience and understanding he has improved a lot. I am convinced the MMR vaccine is to blame.'